Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a delightful culinary masterpiece that brings comfort and warmth into your home. This dish combines large conchiglioni pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta-beef mixture and topped with rich marinara sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Its simplicity makes it an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that evokes nostalgia and happiness at the dinner table. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare this scrumptious dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your loved ones clamoring for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is beloved for numerous reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With minimal ingredients that are typically easy to find, it allows for quick prep time, making busy weeknights manageable. Additionally, the combination of flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, everyone will appreciate the cheesy goodness paired with savory beef. Not to mention, the creamy texture and comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen will have your family ready to gather around the table in no time!

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

12 large pasta shells (conchiglioni): These sturdy shells will cradle a delightful filling.
1 lb ground beef: Juicy and tender, this beef provides a savory base for the dish.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, it adds a luxurious texture.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and gooey, it enhances the cheesy experience.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This sharp and nutty cheese adds depth of flavor.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the filling, ensuring everything stays together.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and flavorful, adding a wonderful fragrance.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy and warm, it enhances the taste of the filling.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Bright and slightly sweet, it complements the other herbs.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates the flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A hint of spice that balances the richness.
2 cups marinara sauce: A luscious, tangy sauce that brings everything together.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and aids in cooking the beef.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Pasta Shells

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the 12 large pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. Verifying that the shells are not overcooked will ensure they hold up while being stuffed.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef, letting it sizzle as it browns. Cook until it’s fully cooked through, ensuring any fatty residue is drained. As the beef simmers, stir in the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for a couple more minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

While the beef is cooling, grab a mixing bowl and combine the creamy goodness of 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Crack in 1 large egg and mix until the textures blend seamlessly. After the ground beef mixture has cooled, add it to this cheese medley, and stir well until everything is thoroughly combined and resembles a rich filling.

Stuff the Shells

Gently take each cool pasta shell and stuff them with the ricotta and beef mixture using a spoon. Be generous with each scoop to ensure a hearty filling. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.

Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to bring your dish together! Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells to ensure each shell gets coated in the tangy goodness. If you have any remaining mozzarella cheese, feel free to sprinkle it on top for that perfect cheesy crust.

Bake the Stuffed Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to become melty and bubbly. After 15 minutes, you can remove the foil to toast the cheese slightly for an added texture.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for a pop of color and an aromatic finish. Serve these warm and enjoy the delightful blend of cheesy, meaty goodness!

Tips & Tricks

Make Ahead: These stuffed shells can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble them in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese if desired. For example, adding feta or ricotta can give an unexpected twist to the flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is best enjoyed with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or even a side of steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, you might include a bowl of homemade soup to start. This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of non-alcoholic mocktail or sparkling water infused with fresh herbs and citrus for a refreshing touch.

Nutritional Information

For each serving (based on six servings), the nutritional breakdown is approximately:

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
(Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific brands and measurements.)

Pair this with a balanced meal plan, incorporating fresh vegetables and lean proteins, to maintain a healthy diet!

Storing Tips & Variations

Leftover Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. For those who like to meal prep, these stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container; they can last up to 3 months. You can also experiment with various fillings – add spinach, ground turkey, or even ricotta mixed with herbs to switch up the flavors.

Conclusion

The time to dive into baking these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is now! This recipe brings together comfort, taste, and ease, making it an unforgettable addition to your recipe repertoire. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any personal touches you made to this dish. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with lentils, sautéed mushrooms, or an array of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

3. How do I know when it’s fully baked?
Look for the cheese to be molten and bubbly, with a slight golden color on top. You can also use a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for optimal safety.

4. Can I prepare stuffed shells in advance?
Certainly! You can assemble the shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just pop them in the oven when ready to bake.

5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any unused shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later! Just make sure to let them cool completely first before freezing.

Enjoy whipping up this indulgent dish, and don’t forget to share your kitchen adventures!